The word “Welcome” comes from the Old English and means “one whose coming is pleasant.” I love that we begin with a welcome because as Unitarian Universalists, “welcome” connects us to our 7 principles. In Unitarian Universalism, you can bring your whole self: your full identity, your questioning mind, your expansive heart. Together, we create a force more powerful than one person or one belief system. As Unitarian Universalists, we do not have to check our personal background and beliefs at the door: we join together on a journey that honors everywhere we’ve been before. As Unitarian Universalists, we "stand on the side of love," embracing all people regardless of age, color, race, socioeconomic status, physical ability, religious background, sexual orientation, sexual identity or questioning individuals. No one is merely “tolerated” here—like you are someone we are putting up with. Your beliefs are not humored here. We are not enduring your presence. You are embraced in this place. Your beliefs are respected and encouraged to be uniquely yours. We are holding one another with gratitude and awe of how we are alike and different. So, welcome to Clayton Memorial Unitarian Universalist Church.

CONGRATULATIONS to the 12 newly approved and newly renewed Welcoming Congregations of 2017.